Varenicline Product Information
Varenicline is the generic version of Champix, a prescription medication that is clinically proven to help adults stop smoking.
Varenicline contains the active ingredient ‘varenicline tartrate’, which is based on a plant extract, does not contain nicotine and isn't addictive. Varenicline tartrate targets the underlying mechanisms of addiction to help individuals quit smoking.
Varenicline is a selective nicotine-receptor partial agonist, specifically designed to target the nicotine receptors in the brain, which are integral to addiction and cravings.
Varenicline works by partially stimulating these receptors, mimicking some of the effects of nicotine but at a much lower intensity.
This helps to reduce cravings for cigarettes and alleviate withdrawal symptoms commonly experienced during smoking cessation.
In addition to reducing cravings, Varenicline blocks nicotine from accessing these receptors. When nicotine from a cigarette enters the brain, it normally binds to nicotinic receptors, triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with short-term pleasure and reward. By preventing nicotine from binding to these receptors, Varenicline diminishes the pleasurable effects of smoking, making cigarettes less satisfying.
Start the treatment 1 to 2 weeks before your planned quit-smoking date. Take Varenicline tablets whole with water, beginning with one 0.5mg tablet for the first three days.
From day four to day seven, increase the dose to two 0.5mg tablets taken daily. After the first week, start taking 1mg twice daily and continue this dosage for the remaining 11 weeks of the treatment.
Varenicline treatment typically lasts for 12 weeks. For individuals who successfully quit smoking during this initial period, an additional 12-week course at a dose of 1mg twice daily is recommended to help prevent relapse, extending the total treatment duration to 24 weeks.
If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your regular schedule - do not take an extra dose to make up for the one missed.
Varenicline can be taken with or without food. While the medication is highly effective in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it is important to remember that quitting smoking also requires willpower and motivation to stop smoking.
The most common side effects of Varenicline include:
- Nausea
- Inflamed nose and throat
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Abnormal dreams
Other side effects can affect one in ten people taking Varenicline:
- Chest pain
- Change in appetite
- Sleepiness
- Weight gain
- Dizziness
Research has shown that Varenicline is significantly more effective than other smoking cessation treatments, such as bupropion (commonly known as Zyban 150mg).
In a comparative study, 44% of participants who used Varenicline successfully quit smoking after 9 to 12 weeks of treatment. This was notably higher than the success rate of 29.7% for those using bupropion and 17.7% for those given a placebo.
Varenicline FAQs
Individuals taking other medication are recommended to consult a pharmacist or doctor before taking Varenicline, due to the effects of certain treatments on the efficacy of Varenicline or cause interactions. This includes:
- Antidepressants and Anti-anxiety Medications: Varenicline may interact with these medications, potentially intensifying side effects such as mood changes or dizziness
- Blood Thinners such as Warfarin: Varenicline can affect blood clotting times, therefore adjustments in blood thinner dosage may be necessary
- Asthma Medications: Some medications for asthma, such as theophylline, may interact with Varenicline and increase the likelihood of side effects
- Insulin for Diabetes: Varenicline may affect blood glucose levels, therefore individuals taking insulin should monitor their levels closely
- Other Smoking Cessation Aids: Combining Varenicline with nicotine replacement therapies such as patches and/or gum may increase side effects
If you miss a dose of Varenicline, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is within 3-4 hours before your next dose, do not take the tablet that you have missed. Do not take two doses at once to compensate for the missed one.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet. It is important that you take Varenicline regularly at the same time each day. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, it is within 3-4 hours before your next dose, do not take the tablet that you have missed.
Combining Varenicline with nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) is not recommended, as it may increase side effects without enhancing efficacy.
Varenicline is a partial agonist at these receptors, meaning it partially activates them while also blocking nicotine from binding.
Taking nicotine replacement therapies, which contain nicotine, can lead to excessive stimulation of these receptors, potentially resulting in side effects such as nausea, headaches and dizziness.
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining treatments.
Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity to alcohol while taking Varenicline.
Alcohol consumption can affect the central nervous system, and Varenicline may enhance this effect by altering the brain's neurotransmitter response, potentially increasing the effects of alcohol on the brain and body.
This means that even a small amount of alcohol could lead to stronger-than-expected symptoms. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption and monitor how you respond.
We recommend discussing your alcohol use with your healthcare provider before taking Varenicline to stop smoking.